A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Moving Checklist for Mableton

Moving doesn’t need to be difficult, and it will be easier if you have a solid plan in place. At Lambert Moving Systems, we have supported moves for countless Mableton individuals and organizations since 1925. We’re here to give you the benefit of what we’ve learned, by way of this comprehensive moving checklist. Our goal is to make your move the smoothest one yet.

8 Weeks Before Moving

Organizing Important Documents

• Create a digital or paper folder to keep all your moving-related documents in one place
• Gather all contracts and policies in one folder
• Add receipts for moving expenses, utility setup, and any repairs or cleaning
• Keep copies of your change-of-address confirmation and important contact numbers
• Store this folder somewhere easy to access, and consider making digital backups of the most important papers

Decluttering

• Begin sorting items you want to keep
• Post items online or plan a garage sale
• Arrange for junk removal or donation drop-offs
• Label your stuff by what stays, goes, or gets tossed

Give Away Items You Don’t Need

• Go through belongings and choose items to donate
• Book a collection or bring donations to your group of choice
• Organize donations so they’re easy to find on pickup day
• Share useful items with your social circle

Sell Extra Stuff Before You Move

• Try selling extras through digital marketplaces
• Use good images and descriptions to attract buyers
• Pick a date and set up for a garage or yard sale
• Set up tables and get cash ready for customers

Important Documents

• Locate birth certificates, passports, and medical records
• Gather insurance papers, financial information, and school records
• Choose a protective option for sensitive papers
• Have your documents handy for when you arrive

Inventory and Special Care Items

• Create an inventory of your possessions
• Flag anything that is delicate, pricey, or sensitive
• Highlight items requiring extra protection or handling

Taking Pictures for Protection

• Take clear photos of high-value items
• Back up your photos digitally for easy access later
• Store photos in a secure digital folder or print copies for reference

Using Up Restricted Items

• Start eating any perishable food so it doesn't go to waste
• Use up or safely throw away cleaning supplies and anything hazardous that movers can't take
• Separate out all forbidden goods and check the rules for safe disposal

Utility Arrangements

• Look up which utility companies you'll need for your new place and your current one
• Verify that everything you need is working or scheduled
• Set the dates to turn off electricity, gas, water, internet, and trash service at your old address
• Book your start dates to avoid gaps in service
• Write down all service confirmations and keep them handy

Safe Deposit Box and Storage Unit

• If changing banks (long distance move) make plans for emptying out your safe deposit box before moving day
• Pick a day to clear out any storage unit rentals
• Book an appointment with your bank or storage manager
• Prepare a safe method for moving critical paperwork or jewelry
• Walk through every area to confirm everything is packed up

Letting Everyone Know Where You’re Going

• Let the post office know your new address so your mail gets forwarded
• Change your details with banks, insurers, and monthly subscriptions

Informing Schools and Medical Providers

• Inform teachers, medical professionals, and veterinarians of your move
• Arrange for academic and medical records to move with you

Preparing for Smooth Travel with Children and Animals

• Have a kit with treats, toys, and necessities ready to go
• Prepare everything for their comfort and health
• Secure a spot with sitters or daycare and check timing
• Double-check that pets have updated ID tags and are microchipped with your new address

Scheduling Days Off for Your Move

• Talk to your employer about days off for your move
• Communicate your schedule to the office in advance
• Activate a message to manage expectations for responses
• Complete time-sensitive projects ahead of schedule
• Don’t forget to arrange for WiFi at your new home

Essential Stops Near Your New Home

Organizing and Mapping Out Your Home

• Sketch out room arrangements before moving day
• Make sure there’s a clear path for oversized items
• Double-check the size of your new rooms so you don't end up with furniture that's too big or too small
• Snap photos for easy reference when arranging furniture
• Assign each item to a specific room for quick organization

Packing Necessities and Priceless Belongings

• Hold on to passports, special keepsakes, and sensitive files
• Prepare an overnight kit for every person
• Keep your wallet, keys, and phone handy on moving day
• If you have irreplaceable items (like heirlooms or keepsakes), plan to transport them yourself

Building Access & Keys

• Make sure nothing gets left behind for entry or exit
• Put all keys and access cards in a clearly labeled envelope so you can find them easily

Move-In/Move-Out Requirements for Apartment and Condo Residents

• Contact building management in advance for rule details
• Verify if your movers must supply insurance paperwork
• Find out if you need parking permits, elevator reservations, or loading dock access for moving day
• Double-check that all paperwork is done before your move
• Clarify when you’re allowed to move in or out

Arranging for Clean-Up

• Hire professionals to clean your old place post-move
• Make sure the new space is spotless for move-in day
• List which spots need extra care or deep cleaning
• Be sure you have what you need for a full DIY clean

Managing Storage Before and After Moving

• Book your time at the storage unit early
• Choose whether you want to transfer storage items personally
• Organize everything in storage for fast loading
• Arrange for new storage and double-check details

Letting Others Know About Your Move

• Give advance notice of your move to your neighbors
• Let neighbors know if your move may impact their routine
• Express gratitude for their understanding

Arranging Parking for the Truck

• Check if you need a parking permit or street reservation for the moving truck at either location
• Contact your local city office or building manager to arrange permits if needed
• Secure your parking area in advance with easy to see markers or cones

Utility Arrangements

• Double-check that all your utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet, trash) are scheduled to be turned off at your old place and turned on at your new one
• Confirm the start and stop dates with each provider so you're not left without service

Packing Personal Items

• Gather up anything you’d prefer to transport on your own, such as personal records or family heirlooms
• Choose strong boxes for personal things and place them somewhere secure
• Clearly label these boxes or bags as "Do Not Move" so the movers know to leave them with you

Essentials Box/Bag

• Gather all daily essentials together for easy access upon arrival
• Have your emergency kit or first-night bag within arm’s reach

Taking Care of Borrowed Things

• Round up all borrowed goods from others or community resources
• Make sure no one is missing something you borrowed after you move

Prescription Transfers

• Contact your pharmacist about moving your medication records
• Make sure you have enough medication to last through the move, just in case there are any delays

Preparing Major Appliances for Safe Transport

• Unplug the fridge, freezer, washer, and dryer
• Empty all food and contents from these appliances
• Sanitize interiors so your appliances stay odor-free
• Allow enough time to defrost your freezer in advance
• Make sure every appliance is completely dry

Pack Up Remaining Non-Essential Belongings

• Pack everything you won’t use right away
• Use sturdy boxes and label them clearly
• Wrap breakables securely to avoid damage
• Confirm all boxes are closed, taped, and good to go

Review Details for Move Day

• Call or message your moving company to confirm the arrival time
• Go over details or unique needs with your crew
• Save phone numbers for quick communication

Get Your Paperwork Organized

• Gather all important paperwork related to the move (contracts, receipts, inventory lists)
• Include keys, garage remotes, and access cards needed for both old and new homes
• Prepare a contact list in case you need quick support
• Use a labeled folder to keep everything in one place

Pack Suitcases with Essentials

• Pack a suitcase or overnight bag for each family member with enough clothes, pajamas, and toiletries for a few days
• Don’t forget chargers, any special items, or daily-use medicines

Set Aside Important Documents and Valuables

• Collect all vital paperwork like passports, birth certificates, and insurance paperwork before move day
• Collect jewelry, cash, and other valuables
• Make sure valuables stay with you, not in the moving truck

Final Declutter

• Walk through the house to catch leftover clutter
• Reduce what you bring by shedding extras now
• Check closets, drawers, and storage areas for forgotten things

Have Spending Money Ready

• Keep cash on hand for anything you might need quickly

Make Sure Caregivers Are Ready for Kid or Pets

• Double-check arrangements for child or pet care on moving day
• Give all necessary information to those watching your loved ones

Prepare Garbage Cans for the Next Resident

• Empty and clean all trash cans, recycling bins, and outdoor containers
• Do a final walk-through of outdoor and trash areas

Line Up Assistance for Delivery and Set-Up

• Have someone you trust available to supervise on move-in day if you can’t be there
• Plan for extra help to monitor movers or installations

Safely Empty and Clean Out the Refrigerator

• Clear out perishables and leftovers completely
• Disconnect power and keep doors ajar to melt ice
• Make sure no moisture remains to avoid unpleasant smells

Prepare Your Washer for the Move

• Run a quick clean cycle or wipe down the inside of your washing machine
• Let it air out so there’s no dampness left
• Use shipping bolts to lock the drum and prevent damage
• Leave the door open for a few hours to let any last moisture evaporate

Closing Out Your Old Place

• Remain close by to clarify details or address special requests
• Point out any items that need special care or are not being moved

• Accompany the movers during their inspection to ensure nothing is missed
• Verify nothing is left off the list for transport

• Ensure every container is tagged for correct placement
• Watch as boxes and furniture are loaded onto the truck to ensure nothing is missed or left behind

• Go through the house and make sure all windows are closed and locked
• Turn off all lights, fans, and appliances before you leave

• Walk through all spaces to double-check for leftovers
• Look behind doors and in drawers for any last items

• Organize keys and remotes for a smooth handover
• Leave a note or instructions if needed (for mail, trash day, or anything special about the house)

Getting Settled in Your New Place

• Get to your new home before the movers so you're ready to greet them and unlock the door
• Check that spaces are clear and ready for move-in

• Provide clear directions for box placement and setup
• Create visual aids so nothing gets misplaced

• Keep track of boxes as they’re delivered
• Look for dents or scratches before the movers leave

• List any concerns on the final form to ensure coverage
• Create visual evidence for claims if needed

• Make sure electricity, water, gas, and internet are all working
• Make sure all machines work before unpacking further

• Save images so you can confirm usage later
• Keep all documentation on file for disputes

• Install new locks for added security if you own the home
• Get permission from the property manager before making changes

Unpack Essentials First

• Start by unpacking the things you'll need right away, like bedding, toiletries, and basic kitchen items
• Set up beds and make sure everyone has what they need for the first night

• Direct your helpers or crew to the most important areas
• Offer detailed guidance for each space or room

• Flatten boxes and collect all packing materials
• Arrange for haul-away or drop-off at a recycling center nearby

• Contact government offices to update your address on your driver’s license, car registration, and voter registration
• Complete vehicle registration for your new residence
• Register pets with the appropriate local authorities

• Take a moment to introduce yourself to your new neighbors
• A quick chat can go a long way toward feeling at home

• Give movers the praise or suggestions they deserve

• Save all your moving documents, receipts, and contracts in one place
• Store documents safely for tax season or reimbursement

• Prepare a kit of quick-access items you’ll use before, during, and after moving
• Don’t pack these items in the truck—keep them handy for comfort and emergencies

• Photograph all wires and plugs so reassembly is easy
• Have the visual guide ready so you don’t guess which wire goes where

• Pack a bag with pajamas, toiletries, towels, and bedding for each family member
• Add special items for comfort or reassurance

• Submit a mail forwarding request with the post office so you don't miss important letters or packages
• Let all your subscription providers know where to send things

• Make a list of key emergency numbers for your new area—local police, fire department, nearest hospital, and a 24-hour pharmacy
• Store emergency numbers on paper and electronically

Need Help With Your Mableton Move?

When you're looking for reliable movers in Mableton, Lambert Moving Systems sets the standard for value and customer care.

• Trust – Relied on by countless Mableton customers for since 1925
• Expertise – Our trained professionals handle your belongings with care
• Best Value – We're dedicated to delivering a lower final bill!

Take the worry out of moving day – let the experts at Lambert Moving Systems take care of every detail so you can start fresh. We put our heart into every move!

Get Your Free Mableton Moving Quote or phone our team at 770-756-6835 right now!